2005 Volkswagen Caravelle vs. 1980 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Caravelle is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,012 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Pontiac Firebird (145 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Caravelle. (104 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Caravelle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Caravelle weights approximately 289 kg more than 1980 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1980 Pontiac Firebird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1980 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Caravelle, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1980 Pontiac Firebird (324 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Caravelle. (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1980 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Caravelle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen Caravelle | 1980 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Pontiac |
| Model | Caravelle | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Size | 2461 cc | 5012 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 324 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 9 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1885 kg | 1596 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3330 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 76 L |
